LeBron James, Derrick Rose and Stars with Most Questions to Answer in Playoffs
The postseason can turn stars into superstars and superstars into legends.
But before conquering the court of public opinion, these household names still have to answer a few more questions. For some, those questions will persist even after they're addressed with authority—just ask LeBron James.
For others, postseason challenges are the final exam and that can make or break legacies.
Who will endure the most scrutiny this time around?
LeBron James
Until he wins a title, LeBron James' ability to win in the clutch will be questioned, whether it's right or wrong. It's an unfair charge more often than not—this guy almost always makes the right decision. Still, it's a charge that resonates so long as any other team comes out ahead.
There's no doubt that Rose can perform like an MVP and do so in the playoffs. There are, however, a few legitimate questions about his health this year.
Even if he answers those in relatively short order, he'll also have to prove that he can remain effective when LeBron James guards him. That's not easy, even for the reigning MVP—and Miami knows it.
Just how much of a superstar is Carmelo Anthony? We know he's clutch, and we know he can score prolifically—especially of late. If he can do it on the largest stage with the world watching, we'll know exactly what kind of star he is.
Amar'e Stoudemire
Stoudemire should be healthy enough to contribute to New York's cause, and he remains one of the most offensively capable bigs in the game. The uncertainties for Amar'e are two-fold.
First, can he share the floor effectively with Carmelo Anthony, who's flourished while spreading the floor from the 4 position? If not, it may be wise to bring him off the bench and/or give him some minutes at the 5 when Tyson Chandler sits.
Second, can this guy play the kind of defense the Knicks need from him? He'll need to do all the little things if New York has any hope of upsetting its way through the postseason.
Russell Westbrook
Westbrook averaged at least 23 points in each of his three playoff series last season, but his passing efficiency tanked over that stretch, to the point that he turned the ball over as often as he earned an assist in the Conference Finals.
Westbrook seems to have resigned himself to focusing more on scoring this season. That may be a good thing, but there are still questions about the Thunder's ability to win a championship with a point guard who sometimes struggles to get his teammates good looks.
Andrew Bynum
There's no question about Bynum's talent, but he's created some questions about his focus with a series of missteps this season, including a three-pointer that the world frowned upon in unison. If Bynum can retain his focus, the Lakers will be hard to beat—if the wheels start to come off, though, they could implode quickly.
Blake Griffin
Griffin is more than just a highlight machine, but that doesn't mean he is a proven commodity in the playoffs. There are nothing but questions surrounding how he'll respond to his first postseason.
Will he try to play beyond his capability? Will he be forced to settle more often for his inconsistent mid-range game? Will he play All-Star caliber defense when needed? These are the unknowns facing Griffin and those Clippers depending on him.
Tim Duncan
The only question for Duncan is how much he has left in the tank. He's closed out the season averaging almost 19 points in under 26 minutes over his last seven games. If he can play like that for one more postseason, that fifth ring is his for the taking.
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